If you’re just getting into the real estate market, you may have heard that 20% down is the ideal percentage in order to lower your monthly payments and get your mortgage application approved. However, while 20% is often suggested, many people struggle to come up with this amount of money. If you’re staving off home ownership, here are some reasons you may not need to hold off as you long as you thought.
Minimizing Your Insurance Costs
Putting down 20% of the total purchase price of your home is often suggested, but it doesn’t definitively mean that your application won’t be approved if you don’t. If you have a good credit score and are in good financial standing, putting less than 20% down means you’ll have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI); however, it can be worth paying the extra funds in order to get into the real estate market sooner and start paying into your most significant investment.
Mortgage Programs For Less Than 20%
It may seem less possible to buy a home if you only have 5 or 7% of the purchase price, but there are many programs in the United States that enable those with limited funds to apply for a mortgage. From the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, there are many lenders that can offer you mortgage programs that will work for your situation. While higher rates come in tandem with a lower down payment, there are options out there for those who haven’t saved quite enough.
Why Put Down 20%?
Putting down 20% is not a necessity for mortgage approval or purchasing a home, but it can be a great means of saving money in the long run and reducing your interest rates. If you’re raring to get into the real estate market and don’t want to wait for the bills to stack up, that’s OK, but if you want to hold off and save up additional funds before diving in, this can mean more money and a more solid investment in the future.
The magic number is often 20% when it comes to a down payment on a home, but you don’t require this percentage of your home’s price in order to get approved for a mortgage. If you’re currently considering diving into home ownership and would like to know more about the opportunities in your area, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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14562 N Valencia Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$2,200,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
2,408
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773886
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Mountain views abound from this modern, highly upgraded Adero Canyon residence completed in 2023. Boasting the coveted Meyer floorplan, this home offers a harmonious mix of contemporary design, high-end finishes and thoughtful architectural features, making it a standout choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed desert lifestyle. Approaching the property reveals striking curb appeal with a sleek modern façade and meticulously landscaped front yard. Raised vegetation beds create a wall of privacy, defining the yard and contemporary style highlighted by landscape lighting accentuating cacti. A detached casita opens to the front walkway, providing easy and private access for multi-generational living or a private home office. Soaring ceilings welcome you to the main house and set a sophisticated ambiance of open, airy living spaces drenched in natural light streaming through expansive windows and disappearing doors framing stunning canyon views. The well-appointed kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances including Wolf dual ovens, microwave drawer, gas range with grill and SubZero refrigerator. Custom oak shaker style cabinets overlook quartzite counters and a large quartzite island with seating defining the area. The primary suite is a tranquil retreat, capturing views of the backyard and panoramic canyons. The ensuite bathroom includes a freestanding soaking tub, separate shower, dual vanities with backlit mirrors and an oversized walk-in closet with built-ins. All bedrooms are positioned for privacy and generously sized, with 4 bedrooms including ensuite bathrooms. The outdoor space of this home is just as impressive as the interior. Designed for both entertainment and relaxation, an expansive covered patio is an extension of the interior living space and opens to stunning canyon views. Travertine hardscaping surrounds a blue mosaic pool with sun shelf and spa, creating multiple lounging areas and leading to a custom pergola seating area. Turf and desert vegetation surround the yard, creating a pristine sanctuary. Conveniences of both Fountain Hills and Scottsdale are nearby, with Adero Canyon hiking trails and Adero Club in close proximity. The Mayo Clinic and top-rated Basis School are just a few miles away. This Toll Brothers gated community embraces the beauty of Arizona while offering residents the opportunity for a luxurious lifestyle of tranquility.
9985 N 79th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$2,200,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,550
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731153
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Finally, a resort-style home in Gainey Ranch, North Meadows community! AC unit (New Sept 2024) with a transferrable warranty to the buyer. Exceptional designs by the builder & owner add luxury and charm. First floor 2 Main bedrooms with full baths. Open kitchen and family room to enjoy fireplace. Large formal living space, dining, and office/den with custom cabinetry. The second floor has large bedroom, bath, and balcony for perfect guest quarters. Evap cooled storage and work space in the 3-car. Roof fully replaced 2021. Enjoy the private, low-maintenance backyard with a built-in BBQ. Luxury living extends to the Gainey Estate Club for all residents with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, pickleball & tennis, lap pool, spa, and luxurious gathering spaces.
2457 E Amber Court
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$2,200,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,249
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737871
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home! Nestled on a corner lot within the prestigious gated community of TH Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona, this exquisite 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom estate offers unparalleled luxury and comfort. With 5249 sqft of single-story living space, this home appraising for its list price features an open floor plan designed for modern living, with 12' ceilings. The heart of the home boasts a gourmet kitchen with double-stacked cabinetry, stunning quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero stainless-steel appliances, making it a chef's paradise. Choose between two luxurious primary suites, perfect for ultimate privacy or an ideal setup for a home theater, both including expansive his/her walk-in closets. Each of the additional bedrooms features... its own private ensuite bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience for every member of the family. A thoughtful in-law suite/wing provides a separate living space for guests or extended family, ensuring everyone has their own retreat. Step outside to a beautifully paved courtyard and a stunning salt water pool, perfect for relaxation and entertaining. The home backs to a serene greenbelt, offering beautiful views and added privacy. For car enthusiasts, the property includes an attached 4-car extended garage and a detached 50' temperature-controlled RV garage with 220V power, capable of accommodating up to 4 additional cars. Positioned on a desirable corner lot, this home offers added space and privacy within the community. This magnificent home combines luxury, functionality, and style in one of Gilbert's most sought-after communities. Don't miss your opportunity to own this incredible property!
86 Linda Vista --
Sedona, AZ 86336
$2,200,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,634
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767898
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This 4,364 sq. ft. home in the gated Foothills S subdivision sits on .47 acres offering Thunder Mountain Red Rock VIEWS and NEW SOLAR & HVAC! The GREAT ROOM features NEWER wood floors, cedar wood ceilings, a stone gas fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light. The chef's kitchen boasts NEW quartz countertops, a gas Viking cooktop, Wolfe double ovens, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a Wolfe microwave. The main level offers a luxurious master suite with a sitting room, gas fireplace, private deck, and a stunningly remodeled bathroom. Oversized 2-car garage + Tesla charger. Expansive deck with a fireplace for entertaining. The lower level features a home theater, gym, 2 guest bedrooms, and 2 baths plus 2 bonus rooms not added in sqft! SIMPLY STUNNING! Property Highlights: - Panoramic Views of Thunder Mountain and Red Rock from every corner of the home - Recent Remodels include new wood floors, quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances - .47 Acres of private, serene land Close to Sedona's Best Attractions and amenities - Spacious Great Room with new wood floors, cedar wood ceilings, and a stunning stone gas fireplace - Commercial-Grade Open Kitchen with new quartz countertops, a gas Viking cooktop, new Wolfe double ovens, a new Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a new Wolfe microwave - Eat-in Kitchen with a bar counter for informal dining - Primary Suite with a separate sitting room, gas fireplace, and private deck off primary bedroom - Powder Room with quartz countertops - Oversized 2-Car Garage - Massive Outdoor Deck with a fireplace for entertaining and BBQs - Lower Level features 2 additional bedrooms, a flex room, 2 bathrooms, and a theater room - Desirable Gated Community in West Sedona Buyer Appeal - Ideal for Buyers seeking an open, spacious, entertaining home in a desirable location - Panoramic VIEWS and high-end finishes make this property stand out - Gated Community provides added security and privacy
702 E Carver Road
Tempe, AZ 85284
$2,200,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
4,577
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736179
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Rare Opportunity! Privately gated, no HOA, 2012 build by VIP Homes, and on 0.75 of an acre lot with $600,000 spent in recent years exterior upgrades. This meticulously maintained custom-built estate is an entertainer's dream and is situated in an extremely convenient Tempe location. The main level features plenty of common area entertainment space with a nicely appointed chef's kitchen, plus a guest bedroom, bathroom, and bonus room. The upstairs includes a spacious master suite, entertainers loft, laundry room, and an additional three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The backyard is a show stopper, over $150,000 spent in installing mature privacy and resort-style trees alone. Complete pool remodel (2024) including a fire feature, new pebble tech surface, pool heater, and glass accent tile. The backyard also includes an incredible built in sound system, custom lighting, sport court, bar and Hydropool hot tub. Plenty of parking including a 3-car garage and an automatic RV gate with shaded parking. Don't miss this opportunity, it is a rare property you won't see every year.
3330 S Sycamore Village Drive
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$2,200,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,129
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760787
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BEAUTIFUL REMODELED HOME overlooking the 12th hole green of the Prospector Golf Course-although a distance from the cart path for privacy. . Views of the 11th fairway and green are also visible. Four bedrooms/4.5 baths. Primary suite with fireplace includes a second room for an office or work out room and his/her closets. Guest bedrooms all ensuite. A separate guest Casita is the fourth bedroom located just inside the gated front courtyard with its own sitting area. Your guests will never want to leave! Open great room/kitchen/dining room floor plan. All new flooring, paint bathrooms and kitchen. HIDEAWAY SLIDERS OPEN TO A REDESIGNED PATIO. NEW POOL WITH NEARLY A 50' LAP LANE AND AN ADJOINING SPA. Outdoor patio has a large sitting and dining area. Great for entertaining. ROOF DECK FOR SEEING INCREDIBLE SUNSETS AND CITY LIGHT VIEWS! TWO JACK NICKLAUS GOLF COURSES! Not a golfer? Enjoy pickle ball, bocce, tennis, hiking and many other activities. Country Club living at its best! Club amenities under a separate agreement. Buyer and/or buyer's agent to verify all pertinent information, including square footage.
1426 W Royal Palm Road
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$2,200,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,588
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754084
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning home is the epitome of sophisticated living. With its grand vaulted ceilings, expansive living area, and five spacious bedrooms, this property offers over 4,588 square feet of living space. The home sits on a magnificent 27,408 square foot lot, which includes a pool and pool house, spanning over 260 square feet. The property is being sold as-is making it a perfect opportunity to customize your dream home. Located in the coveted Royal Palm area, this home provides unparalleled convenience with its central location. The entertainer's backyard offers the perfect space to host gatherings with no neighbors to the side or behind. It is a rare find that offers the perfect blend of modern design and style, making it the perfect place to call home. COURT APPROVAL NEEDED. BRING OFFER
10799 E Florence Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,200,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,616
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766125
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to an exquisite home in the prestigious gated community of Treviso, meticulously maintained by its original owners. As you enter through the charming courtyard, you're greeted by a spacious great room featuring disappearing pocket doors that frame stunning views of McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the surrounding mountains. This thoughtfully designed split floor plan features three en-suite bedrooms, a den, a separate casita, & a versatile bonus room. The large kitchen is a chef's dream, complete w/a massive island, stainless steel appliances—including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf ovens, & dual dishwashers. A convenient wet bar adjacent to the dining room makes entertaining a breeze. Step outside to your backyard oasis, which boasts two patios, a refreshing pool, & a fully equipped outdoor kitchen all with those gorgeous views. This upscale gated community includes a thoughtfully designed community with spacious desert areas between homes to ensure privacy and serenity, creating a serene lifestyle close to premier dining and shopping conveniences, yet retaining an exclusive ambiance with custom homes set amidst the allure of North Scottsdale's desert landscape. Elevate your lifestyle and make Treviso your oasis in the desert - a retreat where luxury knows no bounds.
12975 E Buckskin Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,200,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,095
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763855
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Imagine: you're waking up with the sun lighting up your unobstructed, protected mountain views. Then, you're hiking Tom's Thumb on a gorgeous AZ December day and coming home to your pre-heated dry sauna. This isn't a dream, it could be your new reality when you live in this spectacular Storyrock home. Yes, there's the seamlessly flowing floorplan, chef-worthy kitchen, purposeful open concept living, & stunning luxury fixtures. Of course there's every upgraded finish throughout - every room featuring a statement design aesthetic. There's the most serene backyard with heated pool & firepit...Those details are important - but you're here because when the sun is setting and you're enjoying dinner al fresco - you're experiencing absolute serenity. We could barely put a price tag on it.
36482 N Boulder View Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,200,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,180
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769105
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully remodeled home features a new roof, new garage doors, and a newly remodeled pool. Fresh exterior paint gives it great curb appeal. Inside, you'll find custom accent beams, a redesigned fireplace and bar, and a 500-bottle, temperature-controlled wine cellar. The kitchen, primary, and guest baths feature new cabinets and granite countertops. The split floor plan and detached casita with kitchenette are perfect for guests. Enjoy sunsets over Black Mountain from the backyard or relax by the fire pit and waterfall pool. Explore the nearby McDowell Sonoran Preserve with over 175 miles of trails.
2782 E Citadel Court
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$2,200,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
4,447
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765545
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing Custom home on Huge 1 Acre Lot. Professionally designed, this modern/mediterranean gem boasts hand-scraped engineered hardwood flooring, modern kitchen with gourmet appliance package, stone and quartzite slab tops and deco tile surrounds, trim wall accents and custom shelving, upgrade modern light package, gorgeous outdoor living spaces including front courtyard and back covered and entertaining patios, full guest casita and en-suite quarters with separate entrances, drive-through garage, amazing play pool with slide and grotto, oversized RV gate and parking area, cathedral ceilings, and natural lighting throughout. Cul-de-sac orientation provides plenty of privacy and grand open space vistas.
13815 N Vista Del Oro --
Fort Mcdowell, AZ 85264
$2,200,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
4,533
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770848
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your exclusive 10-acre estate, a private oasis just 12 minutes to Fountain Hills, 30 minutes to Sky Harbor, Old Town Scottsdale, and 10 min to Saguaro Lake. This Santa Barbara-style home offers stunning mountain views from every angle, set on its own mountaintop with 5 acres above and 5 acres below. A gated entry and security system ensure privacy and peace of mind as you enter this luxurious retreat. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a 6-burner Wolf range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, two center islands, and a custom pantry with a drawer microwave and full-size wine fridge. The spacious 2,200 sq. ft. patio is professionally enclosed with rattlesnake-proof fencing, creating a safe outdoor living space. Enjoy the heated infinity pool and spa, a sunken seating area with a fireplace and an outdoor kitchen, perfect for entertaining with panoramic mountain views as your backdrop. An additional large, fenced-in side yard is home to mature fruit trees, including Meyer lemon, white grapefruit, mandarin orange, and lime. Inside, the home is partially furnished and features soaring 22-foot ceilings, three electric fireplaces (two in the living room and one in the dining room), and expansive windows. The guest house offers a kitchenette and a large walk-in closet, while the property includes a large storage shed behind the casita. This home has a private well, along with a Kinetico water softener and whole-house filtration system, along with reverse osmosis (RO) in the kitchen. This one-of-a-kind property also boasts a meditation area with a firepit and hammock overlooking Four Peaks, partially fenced horse arena is ready for horses with water access to the lower 5 acres, and a 220V outlet in the garage for electric vehicle charging. With no HOA, this home combines luxury, privacy, and modern conveniences in an unbeatable location.